Garlic and Oil Pasta (or Spaghetti Aglio e Olio) is a traditional Italian recipe that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s made with a short list of flavorful ingredients, ensuring that it’s always simple, quick, and tasty.
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta to al dente. Set aside 1 1/4 cups of the pasta cooking water before you drain the pasta.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to turn golden. Being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the red pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds longer.
Add the reserved pasta-cooking water to the garlic and oil and bring to a simmer. Cook 5-6 minutes, until the liquid reduces by 1/3.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in parsley and parmesan. Let rest 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to absorb further.
Season with additional salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, to taste. Enjoy.